Australia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with its breathtaking landscapes, exotic wildlife, and cosmopolitan cities attracting millions of travellers from around the globe every year. However, being a country in the southern hemisphere, it experiences seasons in the opposite direction as compared to the northern hemisphere. This means when people in the northern hemisphere are dealing with snow and freezing temperatures, it is summertime in Australia where people can enjoy the beach and the sun. So, what is the current season in Australia? Let’s dive in and find out!
The Four Seasons in Australia
Unlike some tropical countries, Australia has four distinct seasons – summer, autumn, winter, and spring – that offer their own unique appeal to visitors. Let’s take a closer look at each of these seasons:
Summer (December to February)
Summertime in Australia is probably one of the leading reasons why people love to visit the country. With warm temperatures and long days, it is the perfect time to relax on the beach, go for a swim or try out water sports. The average temperature in Sydney during summer ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 27°C (81°F) while in Melbourne it ranges between 14°C (57°F) to 26°C (79°F). It’s the best time of year to visit Australia’s tropical regions, such as Cairns or Darwin, as they can be enjoyed during this period as well.
Autumn (March to May)
The autumn season in Australia is characterized by mild weather but still provides an excellent opportunity to witness the country’s vibrant colours as leaves start to turn yellow and red. It’s the perfect time to explore Australia’s national parks, with plenty of nature walks and hiking trails available. The average temperature ranges between 14°C (57°F) to 23°C (73°F) in Sydney and 11°C (52°F) to 20°C (68°F) in Melbourne during this season.
Winter (June to August)
Winter in Australia can get chilly but also presents the perfect opportunity for snow enthusiasts to explore the country’s many ski resorts. The average temperature in Sydney ranges between 8°C (46°F) to 16°C (60°F) while in Melbourne it ranges between 6°C (43°F) to 14°C (57°F). Besides enjoying the snow-capped mountains, visitors can also relish coastal walks and regional cuisines during this season.
Spring (September to November)
The spring season in Australia is characterized by longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures but fewer crowds as compared to summer. It’s the ideal season to visit the gardens, parks and other outdoor attractions as the country is in full bloom. The average temperature ranges from 12°C (54°F) to 23°C (73°F) in Sydney and 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) in Melbourne.
Current Season in Australia
Currently, we are in the season of summer in Australia, which runs from December to February as mentioned earlier. It’s the perfect time to soak up some sun, hit the beach or explore the country’s tropical regions. However, this doesn’t mean that it is hot all around the country right now. As Australia is a vast country, different regions experience different weather patterns, and temperatures can vary. While Sydney and Perth, for instance, will experience temperatures around or above 30°C, Melbourne’s temperatures will be lower, hovering around 25 degrees, thus giving visitors the perfect mix of warmth and cooler conditions.
What To Pack?
As the weather varies significantly throughout the year, your packing requirements also change along with the seasons. Here is a brief guide on what to pack during different seasons:
Summer
- Lightweight, loose-fitted clothing like shorts and t-shirts
- Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Swimsuits and beach towels
- Comfortable walking shoes
Autumn
- Layers – light jackets, cardigans, and other clothing that you can add or remove as the day progresses
- Comfortable walking shoes and boots
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- A lightweight scarf that can add a touch of colour to your outfit and keep you warm
- Umbrella or raincoat
Winter
- Thick coats and jackets
- Warm accessories like beanies, gloves and scarves
- Boots or other appropriate footwear for cold and possibly wet conditions
- Thermal underwear and other warm layers
- Umbrella or raincoat
Spring
- Light jackets, cardigans and other clothing you can add or remove
- Comfortable walking shoes and boots
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Spring dresses, skirts, and jumpsuits
- A lightweight scarf that can add a touch of colour to your outfit and keep you warm
- Umbrella or raincoat
FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions visitors might have when it comes to the current season in Australia:
- What is the temperature in Australia right now?
As Australia is an extensive country with different climate zones, temperatures can indeed vary greatly. However, you can expect the average temperature to be around 30°C (86°F) in tropical regions like Cairns and Darwin, while Sydney and Perth will average around 25°C (77°F). - What’s the best time to visit Australia?
The best time to visit Australia depends on individual preference and interests. Summer is the peak tourist season; however, spring and autumn also offer a more comfortable environment with fewer crowds. It is best to plan your visit based on what you want to experience in Australia. - Is Australia affected by cyclones?
Yes, Australia does experience cyclones, especially in the tropical regions during the summer season. However, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology issues regular weather warnings to help locals and travellers prepare for them. - Does it snow in Australia?
Yes, it does snow in Australia during the winter season, especially in the snow-capped mountains. - What is the water temperature in Australia?
The water temperature in Australia varies depending on the season and location. Usually, the water temperature ranges from 20-26°C (68-79°F), with the warmest temperatures usually being in the summer season.
Conclusion
Australia is a country of diverse climates, landscapes, and unique experiences that are waiting to be explored, enjoyed and discovered. Whatever your interests, there is something for you in Australia. Hence, it is vital to know what the current season is in Australia and what to pack when planning a visit to this beautiful country. Enjoy your trip down under!
References
- Australia.com. “Travel Seasons in Australia: Weather and Climate Information.” Retrieved from: https://www.australia.com/en/travel-planning/seasons.html
- Bureau of Meteorology. “Australia’s Climate.” Retrieved from: https://www.bom.gov.au/climate/
- Timeanddate.com. “Australian Seasons.” Retrieved from: https://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/aboutseasons.html?iso=20191224T145136